Wordless Declaration

"When He had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!"- John 11:43 (NIV).

Lazarus' body had been in the tomb for four days when Jesus resurrected him. What emotions did Lazarus have when he realized he was back in his body and back in this life? Later, six days before the Passover, Lazarus was at the dinner table along with Jesus (12:2). Did he talk of his heavenly experience, about conversations he had with the saints or with dearly missed relatives while there? Scripture doesn't reveal anything more. Maybe Lazarus was instructed during those four days about what was to come. He certainly wasn't afraid of dying any longer, because the Jewish leaders now sought to kill him, too (v.10), and he certainly wasn't trying to hide. Lazarus had become evidence of Jesus' power and authority, that He was the Messiah. Without saying anything, Lazarus' presence was loud and clear; a wordless declaration.